Chapter Sixteen

Working late in the dungeon, going over evil spells, necromancy, hoodoo and voodoo rituals. Once they saw what she might be up against, they prepared spells, potions, light orbs and fairy dust incantations long into the night. By the time she had enough to cause world war three in the under realms, it was after four in the morning. She happens to check the position of the three moons, telling her the lateness of the hour.

"I hadn't noticed how late it is.. We both need to get some sleep."

Nodding to the Empress, the two headed back to the main floor, then up the stairs to the bed chambers, both ready for sleep.

Walking into the master bed chamber, she went over to the cabinet and poured a shot. If nothing else, cyclops scotch would put her right to sleep.

Esleep, but it was anything but peaceful as she fought, jerking around; deep inside of a nightmare. It was more vivid than ever before. She could hear the screams, feel the heaviness in the air as true darkness set in. In the nightmare a portal to the underworld lay within the castle walls. Her favorite workroom, crumbling in orange and blue- yellow flames. She saw demons, slitering everywhere around her. Ambrosia was being tortured by something, as she tried to find her; the castle just exploded, everywhere.

Suddenly jerking awake, sucking in as much air as her body would allow. Sitting there, breathing deeply and drenched in sweat; the empress slowly checked under her bed like a mortal child. After much debate, forced herself back to sleep.

Rolling slowly out of bed, opening one eye; she groaned. Then reluctantly sat up, checking the sky for a sense of time. From the look of it, must be mid day or near it. Getting her thoughts motivated, then went to the closet; choosing a black and burgundy robe for the day.

"Ah that's better," She told the empty room. Then rang for the servant girl, who didn't take more than ten minutes to arrive with a pot of brew for her.

"Oh thank you."

"It's not pixie brew."

"Oh, what kind is it?"

"Sorceress brew."

"Oh good it's a little stronger. Pour me a cup."

"There we are, anything else miss?"

"No, you may go on."

"Miss? When is Salem supposed to arrive for help, if he needs it?"

"Moonrise today or the next."

Ambrosia nodded and then scampered off to get back to work.